Five bot farms were discovered and shut down in Ukraine
Updates Cybercrime UpdatesFive bot farms in Ukraine spreading fake news, shut down by Ukrainian Security Service, potentially reaching 100,000 social media accounts. Russia accused of instigating panic and attempting to destabilize Ukraine.
A new type of sovereignty: Liberland in the metaverse
Metaverse Diplomacy UpdatesThe text discusses how the concept of sovereignty could evolve in the metaverse, focusing on the Free Republic of Liberland, an unrecognized libertarian microstate. Liberland aims to exist without laws, regulations, gun control, or taxes, with plans for it to manifest in the metaverse. Zaha Hadid Architects are designing it, but its impact on sovereignty and governance is still uncertain.
50 years of ping pong diplomacy – any lesson for our era?
Ping Pong Diplomacy, Sports diplomacy UpdatesIn 1972, ping pong diplomacy between the United States and China marked a significant milestone in political reconciliation. Initiated by a chance encounter between a US player and the Chinese team in 1971, it led to visits between the two countries. This event showcased the potential of sports in fostering peace and improving international relations, suggesting lessons for today's era.
China moves to metaverse party-building training
Contemporary diplomacy, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Education diplomacy, Metaverse Diplomacy, Nation branding, Pedagogy UpdatesChina has implemented metaverse-based training for party officials through the Chinese Academy of Governance, utilizing a platform developed by Mengke. This virtual reality training includes various features like avatar movement and interaction, providing an engaging alternative to traditional party-building programs.
How will the Digital Markets Act promote EU’s digital industry?
E-commerce and trade UpdatesThe Digital Markets Act seeks to boost the EU digital industry by regulating tech giants like Apple, Meta, and Google. Key measures include allowing iPhone users to install apps from other sources, making messaging services like WhatsApp interoperable with rivals, and requiring Google to feature content from European publishers in its search results.
Trans-Atlantic Data Privacy Framework for data flow between USA and EU
Privacy and data protection UpdatesThe text discusses the establishment of a Trans-Atlantic Data Security Framework between the USA and EU. This framework aims to regulate data flow by introducing surveillance principles, requiring companies to adhere to Privacy Shield Principles, implementing oversight measures, and creating an independent Data Protection Review Court. The adoption of the framework will be through legal mechanisms, including an Executive Order in the USA.
Cyberattacks against satellites
Cybersecurity, Space diplomacy UpdatesSatellites are facing a rise in cyberattacks, with recent incidents targeting key satellite networks. To combat this threat, a joint cybersecurity effort has been launched by two major entities to safeguard satellite communications.
Starlink won’t block Russian news sources
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesDespite requests from some governments, SpaceX's Starlink system, led by Elon Musk, will not block access to Russian news sources, unless forced. Musk emphasized a commitment to free speech, in contrast to actions taken by other tech companies like Google and Microsoft to restrict Russian media outlets.
Orbit debris struck the Moon
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesA rocket part that was orbiting for eight years hit the Moon at the Hertzsprung crater, believed to be from China's Chang'e 5-T1 mission. Chinese officials deny ownership, previously suspected to be SpaceX's. Scientists say it's the first known space junk collision with the Moon. Confirmation of the impact may take months due to the far side location.
Romania becomes 16th country to join Artemis Accords
Space diplomacy UpdatesRomania joins the Artemis Accords, making it the 16th country to do so. The Accords aim to ensure the peaceful and safe exploration of outer space, building on principles outlined in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. Key principles include peaceful purposes, transparency, emergency assistance, and debris mitigation.
